For those looking for the perfect place to call home, a house with a mother-in-law suite may be the answer.
Not only do these homes provide extra space and privacy for extended family members, but they also often come with amenities like private entrances and separate living quarters.
Whether you’re hoping to add an in-law suite to an existing home or searching for a property that already has one, here’s what you need to know about these unique living spaces.
What is Mother in Law Suite?
A mother in law suite is a self-contained living space that is typically attached to the main house. It can be used for an extended family member, such as a mother or father in law, relative, or friend who wants to move in but still maintain their privacy. The suite usually features its own bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen area and may also have a separate entrance from the main house.
Benefits of having a mother in law suite
One of the main benefits of having a mother in law suite is that it provides extra space for extended family members. Having a separate suite allows for more privacy and independence, while still providing easy access to the main house. This can be especially helpful if you have an elderly family member who needs special assistance or someone with physical disability.
Types of Mother in Law Suites
Attached Suite
An attached suite is one that is physically connected to the main house by a hallway, doorway, or other means. These suites are typically located on the same level as the main home, which makes them easier to access and less expensive to build compared to a detached suite. Attached suites are great for those looking for an easy way to add extra space without having to make major renovations or break the bank.
Detached Suite
A detached suite is one that is built as a separate structure from the main house. These suites offer more privacy and independence, as they are typically located farther away from the main house. Detached suites are also great for those who would like to rent out their space for additional income. However, these suites usually require more planning and money to build since they need to be connected to utilities and have other amenities included.
Garage Conversion
For those looking for a more creative way to add an in-law suite to their home, a garage conversion is a great option. This involves converting an existing garage into a separate living space by adding walls, windows, floors, and other amenities. This type of suite offers plenty of privacy and independence while still being close to the main house. Garage conversions are also often less expensive than building an attached or detached suite.
Basement Suite
A basement suite is a great way to add an in-law suite without having to build something completely new. This type of suite is typically located in the basement and can either be part of the main house or a separate living space. Basement suites offer plenty of privacy and independence, while still being close to the main home. They are also usually more affordable than building an attached or detached suite.
Bonus Room Suite
A bonus room suite is a great way to add an in-law suite without having to build something completely new. This type of suite is typically located in an unused or underutilized room of the main house, such as an attic, basement, or other space that has enough room for a separate living space. Bonus room suites offer plenty of privacy and independence while still being close to the main home. They are also usually more affordable than building an attached or detached suite.
Designing a Mother in Law Suite
Layout
When designing a mother in law suite, layout is one of the most important considerations. The layout should be designed to maximize space and provide privacy for both people living in the suite. Consider adding separate entrances for each person to ensure privacy, and plan out how furniture will fit into the space. Make sure that there is enough room for a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen area, and any other amenities that may be desired.
Privacy
Privacy is an important consideration when designing a mother in law suite. Having separate entrances for each person will ensure that everyone has enough privacy and independence. Additionally, windows should be placed strategically to allow for natural light while also providing the necessary level of privacy. If possible, place the suite away from any public view or main access areas of the main house. Finally, consider installing soundproofing materials to minimize noise from other parts of the house.
Accessibility
Accessibility is an important consideration when designing a mother in law suite. The suite should be designed to ensure that anyone living there can easily access all the amenities they need. This means taking into consideration any mobility issues, such as wheelchair accessibility, and making sure there are no stairs or other obstacles that might make it difficult to move around the space. Additionally, consider adding features such as grab bars and ramps to make the suite more accessible.
Safety features
Safety is an important consideration when designing a mother in law suite. In addition to making sure the space is wheelchair accessible and free of any obstacles, it is important to add features that will make the space safe for those living there. This includes adding smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and deadbolts on all exterior doors. Additionally, consider installing security cameras or motion sensors to help ensure the safety of those living in the suite.
Kitchenette
When designing a mother in law suite, it is important to include a kitchenette. This is the perfect way to provide the person living in the suite with their own private area for cooking and dining.
The kitchenette should be equipped with basic appliances such as a sink, stovetop, refrigerator, and microwave. Additionally, consider adding other amenities such as cabinets and countertops to store food and dishes.
Bathroom
When designing a mother in law suite, it is important to include a bathroom. This will allow the person living in the suite to have their own private area for bathing and other hygiene needs.
The bathroom should be equipped with basic fixtures such as a toilet, sink, and shower or bathtub. Additionally, consider adding features such as grab bars and non-slip flooring to make the space more accessible.
Uses of a Mother in Law Suite
Housing extended family
A mother in law suite is a great way to provide housing for extended family members. These suites offer plenty of privacy and independence while still being close to the main home, making them ideal for elderly parents or adult children who need their own space but still want to be near their family.
The suite can also be used as a rental property, providing additional income for homeowners while giving extended family members a place to stay.
Providing an extra space for guests
Providing an extra space for guests is another great use for a mother in law suite. Whether it’s for visiting family members or friends, a mother in law suite provides plenty of privacy and independence for guests.
The suite can be equipped with amenities such as a kitchenette and bathroom to ensure that guests have everything they need during their stay. Additionally, having a separate entrance can make it easier for guests to arrive and depart without disturbing the rest of the household.
Hosting home businesses
Hosting home businesses in a mother in law suite can be a great way to have a dedicated workspace that is separate from the rest of the house. This allows entrepreneurs to focus on their business without distractions while still having access to all the amenities they need.
When designing the suite, make sure to include features such as ample storage and countertop space for supplies, comfortable seating for meetings, and built -in technology such as computers or phones.
Renting out for extra income
Renting out a mother in law suite can be a great way to generate extra income for homeowners. These suites often feature their own entrance, kitchenette and bathroom, making them the perfect space for short-term renters such as business travelers or vacationers.
Homeowners can choose to rent out the entire suite or just a single room, depending on their needs. Additionally, many cities offer tax breaks for homeowners who rent out a mother in law suite, so it’s important to research your local regulations before renting out the space.
Real Estate Value of Homes
Increased demand
The demand for homes with mother in law suites is increasing as more and more people are looking for an affordable and convenient way to accommodate their elderly parents or adult children.
Homes with mother in law suites can also provide homeowners with additional income by renting out the space, making them even more attractive to buyers. As such, homes with mother in law suites often have higher real estate values than those without.
Rental income potential
The potential for rental income is one of the major benefits of having a mother in law suite. By renting out the space, homeowners can generate an additional source of income that can help offset mortgage payments and other living expenses.
While there are some restrictions on how much can be charged for rent, these suites typically provide enough space to accommodate short-term renters such as business travelers or vacationers. Additionally, many cities offer tax breaks for homeowners who rent out a mother in law suite, so it’s important to research your local regulations before doing so.
Higher resale value
Having a mother in law suite can also result in higher resale value for homeowners. These suites provide additional living space and potential rental income, making them an attractive feature for buyers.
Additionally, the demand for homes with mother in law suites is increasing as more people look for an affordable and convenient way to accommodate their elderly parents or adult children. As such, homeowners with these suites often see an increase in their home’s value when it comes time to sell.
Conclusion
When buying or designing a home, it is important to consider whether a mother in law suite would be beneficial. These suites provide additional living space and potential rental income, making them an attractive feature for buyers. Additionally, they can help accommodate family members or guests while providing them with extra privacy and independence.
Furthermore, having a separate entrance can make it easier for visitors to arrive and depart without disturbing the rest of the household. Lastly, many cities offer tax breaks for homeowners who rent out a mother in law suite, so it’s important to research your local regulations before doing so.
